What to Wear for Your Photo Session: Tips for Choosing Outfits that Shine
Choosing outfits for a photo session can feel daunting, but don’t worry — I’m here to help you put together looks that are practical, polished, and beautiful in photos! Here are some tips to get you started.
1. Consider the Location: Practical Meets Polished
Your location plays a huge role in setting the tone of your photos, so you’ll want to consider where we’re shooting when picking outfits.
Beach Sessions:
If we’re shooting at the beach (yes, please!), think relaxed yet polished. Flowing dresses or linen pants work great, and barefoot is always an option here!
Mountain or Forest Settings:
In a forest or mountains, try earthy colors that complement nature, and think about footwear that’s comfortable but stylish. Layers can add a nice touch here, like light jackets or cozy scarves.
Home Sessions:
If we’re at your home, aim for what you’d typically wear around the house but elevated a notch — cozy, casual, and true to who you are in your own space.
Basically, start with what you’d naturally wear to the location and then go for a slightly polished, put-together version of that style.
2. Dress for the Season: Keep it Practical
Seasonal outfits help create a mood that feels real and authentic.
Winter Sessions:
For winter shoots, cozy layers like scarves, jackets, or sweaters add warmth and style to your look.
Summer Vibes:
Summer beach shots call for light, breathable fabrics in soft, sun-friendly colors.
Fall in the Forest:
Think warm tones and cozy knits that echo the colors of the leaves.
Keeping seasonality in mind will help you feel comfortable, and you’ll look like you belong naturally in the setting.
3. Coordinate with Each Other, Not Too Matchy-Matchy
When you’re coordinating outfits, aim for vibes that mesh well together. You don’t have to (and really shouldn’t) match exactly, but you’ll want your outfits to complement each other. For example:
Keep it Balanced:
A ball gown next to someone in a T-shirt and flip-flops can look mismatched and distract from the moment. Instead, find a balance that feels natural to both of you.
Coordinating Colors:
If color matching is a challenge, try using Adobe’s free color palette generator at Adobe Color. Start with one main color from our backdrop, and let Adobe Color create a palette based on it. Another trick? Pick one “base” outfit, and then use colors from that look to guide everyone else’s choices.
4. Avoid Distracting Patterns
Patterns can be fun but can also draw focus away from the faces and emotions we’re capturing. Avoid large logos, neon colors, or very busy patterns that might clash with the setting. Instead, lean toward solid colors or subtle patterns that enhance rather than distract from the moment.
5. Need a Second Opinion? I’m Here to Help!
If you’re ever unsure about what to wear or want a little feedback, please reach out! I’m more than happy to guide you in making choices that will not only photograph beautifully but also help you feel amazing in front of the camera.
